Knowledge and Perception of e-Cigarettes among Dental Students in Riyadh Region Saudi Arabia

BACKGROUND: Tobacco use is one of the leading causes of death in the world. Dentists play a vital role in tobacco abstinence and counseling. Dental institution being a foundation for a clinical practice from where they can practice and implement the habit of tobacco counseling. E-cigarette can be availed over-the-counter and can be used as alternative to conventional tobacco smoking to reduce ill effects of tobacco. OBJECTIVES: The aim of this study is to assess dental student's knowledge, prevalence, and perception about e-cigarette. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A cross-sectional study was done on 400 dental students studying in different universities at Riyadh region, KSA. Questions related to prevalence, knowledge, and awareness about e-cigarette were asked. RESULTS: Forty-four percent of participants were found to be smokers, 26% of the participants had used an e-cigarette themselves with 21% currently using the same. CONCLUSION: This effective therapeutic tool should be known well by the upcoming budding and professional practicing dentists with through knowledge of each dimensions, merits and demerits of the same to develop positivity in inculcating and encouraging in patient tobacco abstinence program.